The FDA continues to investigate the presence of impurities in valsartan products used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Recently, the agency identified the impurities N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) in certain valsartan products and have now posted the quantity of NDMA in valsartan medications. The results are shocking.
About Valsartan
Manufactured by Major Pharamascetucials, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and other companies, valsartan is a cardiovascular drug to treat high blood pressure or hypertension. The FDA approved the medication in adults and children aged 6 and up. The drug can also treat adults for heart failure along with reducing the risk of death in those who recently had a heart attack. It is available as a stand-alone medication or as valsartan HCTZ, which combines valsartan with the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide. Common medications containing the valsartan are Diovan, Diovan HCT, Exforge, Exforge HCT or Entresto.
NDMA Valsartan Test Results
According to major health studies, just consuming over 0.096 micrograms of NDMA per day is not safe based on lifetime exposure.
The FDA estimates that 1 in 5 people could have consumed NDMA in valsartan over a four year period. Also, the NDMA cancer risk increases with higher doses of the medication as it has more of the substance.
Valsartan Cancer
Even at very low levels, NDMA can cause cancer. It is so dangerous that researchers can’t safely test the substance in human studies. However, in animal studies NDMA cause cancer within a year of ingestion in the:
- Liver
- Kidney
- Colorectal
- Stomach
- Bladder
- Pancreatic
Liver injury can also happen within a month of taking valsartan.
Seek Justice
Many people after taking valsartan are horrified to learn that their medication could have caused their cancer. Therefore, it is important to seek justice. These potentially cancer-causing drugs have been on the market for over 5 years. This is unacceptable. You should hold these manufacturers accountable.
We want to help send a message that this is not acceptable. If a dangerous product harmed you, we will be your advocate. Additionally, we have the experience necessary to successfully litigate these cases.
Contact the Michael Brady Lynch Firm today for a free consultation to learn more about seeking justice. Compensation may be available for any medical expenses associated with this ordeal, as well as for your physical and emotional suffering. There is no obligation.